My daughter saw her OB doctor for the first time on Wednesday. At the ER the last two times while pregnant, her BP was borderline high (lower number in the low 90's or 90) but once she was sick and the other time she was scared and nervous. Prior to that she'd had lower normal BP's. Also, in the past she's had low normal or low thyroid function (with dx. of borderline hypothyroid). It was never low enough for her dr. to give her meds as a pre-teen, then teen.

Y'all might not remember, but late last fall she went through pure hell on this earth with her back...she still lives in panic fearing the recurring pain. We found out that she had two herniated discs in her back. Steriods helped her immensely (she had a huge shot in ER then medrol dose pack).

However, right after taking the steroids and while on the BC pill, she found out she was pregnant. She's right now 11 weeks pregnant.

Back to the first doctor's appointment on Wednesday. They got a really good background, discussed concerns, etc. Her doctor drew bloodwork (typical but added thyroid due to her past issues). They called today.

They said her bloodwork is showing hyperthyroidism. She's to see a specialist on the 23rd. The nurse said her T4 came back high and her TSH came back low. I believe she said the TSH is normal at .4 and her's showed .01. Also, I might not have heard her right and she might've said .1. That sounds low to me, but she said her's aren't WAY off, but the OB wants her to see a endocrinologist.

Does anyone know anything about this?

I did some looking online and the symptoms make so much sense. Although the physical and emotional coincide with early pregnancy symptoms, it explains why her agitation, anxiety, nausea, etc., has been so extreme. Also, she's lost 13 lbs.

She doesn't have any symptoms of rapid heartbeat (that we're aware of), eye changes, excessive sweating/sensitivity to heat, or things such as that.

I don't *think* due to history and present that this is due to Grave's Disease and we'll find out, but more to the emotional and physical "break" with back, steroids, then quick pregnancy maybe? If it is, hopefully it will regulate as the pregnancy progresses? I'm totally guessing right now, obviously, but my baby is so upset and more stress is the LAST thing she needs. She's very worried about the pregnancy now added to panic regarding her back.

Please add any experience or knowledge if you can. I would so appreciate it.

no experience with thyroid issues and pregnancy. back problems and pregnancy, yes.

but here is great big hug until you get some answers.



i know it doesn't help much, but if she can just do some relaxation tecniques, that will help. keep her mind off things too. right now she can't change anything. worry will make it worse. even getting involved in a craft. does she crochet? jewelry making? scrap booking?

KD, you know my prayers are lifted for her

I will LYK as soon as I hear back from my friend who has brought her Grave's Disease into remission via natural methods...even tho I agree with you that it is unlikely that this is Grave's...more likely steroid/stress/pregnancy hormones doing a roller coaster on her system

Hoping she will be able to do that deep breathing or some other relaxation technique....and oh so glad she is with you.
You are one special mama, KimmyDawn

Sending some hugs and prayers

Donna

Thanks so much, guys.

There's a "calm" around here just knowing why she's so over the top, ya know? I deal with her with much more understanding (about the difference in dealing with a child having a tantrum and one that's really sick).

She feels better knowing that there's a reason. I think she was really worried about her mental health, not understanding it, and it was increasing her stress/anxiety.

I'll let you know what they say on the 23rd.

KD

I need to cry. I need to sit alone somewhere and cry and cry. I'm so worried about her.

I'm really worried about my girl.

KD

Kimmy,

Please check your PM's..I just sent you one.. Love,Kristin

This is reassuring:
http://www.ehealthmd.com/library/hyp...pregnancy.html

http://www.thyroid-info.com/articles/preghyper.htm
If heart rate is not up yet, it may be a mild situation.

Don't worry too much yet... lots of vomiting leads to electrolyte disturbances, so fortifying with high potassium foods may help. Also low blood sugar contributes to mood swings. Some Gatorade thruout the dayand orange juice, may help with leveling that out. (not in excess tho). Sugar goes a long way in early pregnancy in helping with nausea too.

That says so much, MrsD...it goes right in with what's going on! Thank you so very much!!!

KD

Dear KimmyDawn,
I'm so sorry to read about all the worries your daughter is having now. I'm sorry I've not been able to be around much lately here but I've been in the proverbial doldrums here personally. I just wanted to say that I hope that she's doing alright there, and I hope you are also.

take care of yourself there too,
they all need you.
Lara